Settle For Nothing

Album: Rage Against The Machine (1992)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song was written in the first person from the point of view of a frustrated youth from the slums. His life is so brutal, he prefers being in jail.

    It's part of the first (self-titled) Rage Against The Machine album and was often part of their setlists in their early years.
  • The song's message is spelled out at the end when lead singer Zack de la Rocha screams:

    If we don't take action now
    We settle for nothing later
    We'll settle for nothing now
    And we'll settle for nothing later


    "Never settle" was a credo for the band. When they entered the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2023, Tom Morello told fans: "Dream big and don't settle." (Morello was the only member of the group to attend; by this time they were essentially broken up.)

Comments: 5

  • Henry from Marion, MtGotta be one of Rage's heaviest, angriest songs but that is their forte. AWESOME!!!
  • Andrea from Redondo Beach , CaI love this song. I feel it talks about being part of a lower class. How you are caught in the middle. You need money to do anything. He was nothing until he made a name for himself. "I gotta 9, a sign, a set and now I gotta name."
  • Andrea from Redondo Beach , CaAlso, a favorite RAGE quote, "If ingnorance is bliss, then knock the smile off my face." Hell yeah. I love RAGE with a passion.
  • Zackattack from Sacramento, Cai Got the idea it might have something to do with his Dad also
  • Jarred from Narre Warren, Victoria, AustraliaWhat can I say... Awesome song. Love the rap/talking bit at the start, the bass directly after it is soooo good. Probably my favorite RATM song ever...
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Spooner Oldham

Spooner OldhamSongwriter Interviews

His keyboard work helped define the Muscle Shoals sound and make him an integral part of many Neil Young recordings. Spooner is also an accomplished songwriter, whose hits include "I'm Your Puppet" and "Cry Like A Baby."

Jay, Peaches, Spinderella and other Darrining Victims

Jay, Peaches, Spinderella and other Darrining VictimsSong Writing

Just like Darrin was replaced on Bewitched, groups have swapped out original members, hoping we wouldn't notice.

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & Fire

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & FireSongwriter Interviews

The longtime bassist of Earth, Wind & Fire discusses how his band came to do a holiday album, and offers insight into some of the greatest dance/soul tunes of all-time.

Richie Wise (Kiss producer, Dust)

Richie Wise (Kiss producer, Dust)Songwriter Interviews

Richie talks about producing the first two Kiss albums, recording "Brother Louie," and the newfound appreciation of his rock band, Dust.

Janet Jackson

Janet JacksonFact or Fiction

Was Janet secretly married at 18? Did she gain 60 pounds for a movie role that went to Mariah Carey? See what you know about Ms. Jackson.

David Sancious

David SanciousSongwriter Interviews

Keyboard great David Sancious talks about his work with Sting, Seal, Springsteen, Clapton and Aretha, and explains what quantum physics has to do with making music.